November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, and if you don’t know that much about pancreatic cancer, now is a great time to learn more. Even though pancreatic cancer isn’t considered a common cancer, most of the cases diagnosed each year are in seniors.
The average age of diagnosis for pancreatic cancer is 70. And since pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest types of cancer, it’s something seniors should be screened for regularly. Early detection and treatment offer the best chance of survival.
What Are The Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer?
If you are worried that your senior parent has a high risk of pancreatic cancer, you should be on the lookout for some of the early symptoms. If your senior parent has home care assistance, talk to their care provider about writing down any changes or symptoms that they notice so you can track potential symptoms.
Home care assistance can also help your senior parent make lifestyle changes that can lower their risk of pancreatic cancer, like quitting smoking and eating healthy meals. The symptoms of pancreatic cancer in seniors that you should be watching for include:
Stomach or Back Pain
One of the earliest signs of pancreatic cancer is pain in the upper stomach or middle back. The pain may start off mild, but it often gets worse over time. Some people describe it as a dull ache or a deep pressure that won’t go away. It can feel worse after eating or when lying down.
In seniors, this pain might be mistaken for common problems like arthritis, muscle strain, or indigestion. But if your loved one has a new kind of pain that doesn’t go away or gets worse, it should be checked out, especially if other symptoms are present too.
Unexpected Weight Loss
Weight loss without trying is a warning sign that something could be wrong. Seniors with pancreatic cancer may lose weight even though they are eating the same amount or only a little less. This can happen because the tumor affects how the body digests food, especially fats and proteins.
When the pancreas isn’t working right, the body can’t absorb nutrients like it should. That means someone may be eating, but not getting the fuel their body needs. Sudden or steady weight loss in an older adult is not normal and should be taken seriously.
Yellowing of the Skin or Eyes
Jaundice is a clear and often early symptom of pancreatic cancer. It causes the skin and the whites of the eyes to turn yellow. This happens when the tumor blocks the bile duct, which carries a fluid called bile from the liver to the small intestine.
Along with yellow skin and eyes, jaundice can cause dark urine, pale or greasy stools, and itchy skin. These signs are easier to spot than some other symptoms and should never be ignored. If your loved one shows signs of jaundice, get medical help right away.
Changes in Bathroom Habits
Pancreatic cancer can affect how food is digested. When the pancreas isn’t releasing enough enzymes, stools may change in appearance. They might become pale, greasy, or float in the toilet. The stool may also have a strong smell and be hard to flush.
Some people may also have more gas, bloating, or diarrhea. These issues might seem like a minor stomach bug or something they ate, but if they last more than a few days, it’s a sign to talk to a doctor.
New or Worsening Diabetes
The pancreas helps control blood sugar levels by making insulin. If a tumor grows in the pancreas, it can lead to problems with blood sugar. Some seniors may suddenly develop type 2 diabetes, even if they’ve never had it before. Others who already have diabetes may find it harder to manage.
If blood sugar levels start going up or down without a clear reason, and especially if this comes with weight loss or fatigue, it could be an early sign of pancreatic cancer.
Tracking Symptoms Can Help Get A Diagnosis
Pancreatic cancer is hard to catch early, but knowing what to look for can make a big difference. If you notice any of these symptoms in your senior parent, it’s important to talk to a doctor. Don’t assume it’s just part of getting older.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care in Iota, LA, please contact the caring staff at BrightCare Homecare today. Call (337) 279-5466
BrightCare Homecare is a top provider of home care services in Lafayette, Youngsville, Broussard, New Iberia, Breaux Bridge, Carencro, Opelousas, Sunset, Crowley, Abbeville, Scott, Cecilia, Port Barre, Lota, and the surrounding areas.
Through a personalized care plan, BrightCare HomeCare provides the necessary services and care to cater to your unique personal and health needs. With us, we ensure around-the-clock services and supervision to help achieve optimum health and wellness.
We are a top provider of home care services in Lafayette, Youngsville, Broussard, New Iberia, Breaux Bridge, Carencro, Opelousas, Sunset, Crowley, Abbeville, Scott, Cecilia, Port Barre, Iota, and the surrounding areas.
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